Identify the number of the surgical blade denoted in the image.

NORCET 2 - 2021 (shift-1)

Medical Surgical Nursing

Easy

Appeared in: NORCET 2 - 2021 (shift-1)

Explanation

The blade in the image is a No. 22 surgical blade, identified by its large size and distinctively broad, curved cutting edge (belly).
This shape is ideal for making long, continuous incisions through the skin, commonly required in abdominal and thoracic surgeries.
No. 22 blades are designed to be used with a No. 4 series scalpel handle, which is larger than the No. 3 handle used for smaller blades.

Option A: A No. 11 blade has a long, triangular shape with a sharply pointed tip, resembling a lancet. It is used for making stab incisions, which is a different function and shape from the blade shown.
Option B: A No. 15 blade is much smaller and has a short, curved cutting edge. It is used for fine, precise, and short incisions, such as in facial or plastic surgery, and does not match the large blade in the image.
Option C: A No. 21 blade is similar in shape to a No. 22 blade but is generally smaller and has a less pronounced curve or 'belly'. The blade in the image has the broad, leaf-like shape more characteristic of a No. 22.

Visual 1: Infographic: A chart displaying various common surgical blades (e.g., No. 10, 11, 15, 20, 21, 22, 23) side-by-side, labeling each with its number, key features, and typical surgical application.
Visual 2: Diagram: An illustration showing the correct pairing of surgical blades with their corresponding scalpel handles (No. 3 handle for blades 10-15; No. 4 handle for blades 20-24).

Clinical Relevance

Nursing practice connection: This is primarily an exam-oriented knowledge point with limited direct bedside application, so retain Identification of surgical instruments, specifically surgical blades as background academic context rather than a clinical decision trigger.
A nurse's ability to correctly identify surgical instruments, including different blade types, is essential for ensuring the surgical team has the correct tools, which directly impacts procedural efficiency and patient safety.
Knowledge of blade types and their uses helps the scrub nurse anticipate the surgeon's needs and prepare the appropriate instruments.
What if the surgeon asks for a '15 blade' for a large abdominal incision? The nurse should recognize this is likely an incorrect request, as a No. 15 is for fine work. The nurse should clarify the request, perhaps suggesting a No. 10 or No. 22 blade, thereby preventing a delay or the use of an inappropriate tool.

How to Approach the Question

First, carefully examine the image of the surgical blade. Pay close attention to its overall size, shape, and the curvature of the cutting edge.
Note the key features: Is it large or small? Is the tip pointed or rounded? Is the cutting edge straight or curved? Does it have a prominent 'belly' (a wide, curved section)?
The blade in the image is large with a very broad, curved cutting edge.
Next, mentally review the characteristics of the common surgical blades listed in the options.
Compare your observations from the image to the characteristics of each option: No. 11 (triangular/pointed), No. 15 (small/curved), No. 21 (large/curved but narrower), and No. 22 (large/broadly curved).
Conclude that the blade's large size and prominent curved belly are the defining features of a No. 22 blade.

Concept Tested & Keywords

Concept Tested: Identification of surgical instruments, specifically surgical blades.
Stem keywords: surgical blade, identify, image
Lead-in keywords: identify the number
Clinical cues: The visual characteristics of the blade (large size, curved belly) are the primary cues for identification.

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